Late Night

The soft sound of raindrops falling from the sky created a calming tune as Ayumi rested in her tent, seeking sleep. Recent events had surprised her, not in a negative way, but in a pleasantly unexpected manner. As Ayumi reflected on what had occurred, she lightly touched her lips, still feeling the lingering sensation from their tender kiss.

The warmth from their kiss remained, recalling the meaningful moment. Ayumi and Haruki had held each other tightly for what felt like a long time, only letting go when the first raindrops began to fall. They hurried to the woods to avoid getting wet and returned to their camp just before the rain could enter. Throughout this quick escape, they didn't speak but held hands instinctively, finding comfort in each other's touch.

Ayumi took a deep breath and sighed, focusing on the tent's ceiling. Her hands rested on her stomach as she relaxed, hoping to drift into a peaceful sleep. As her eyes closed, she felt a gentle touch on her forehead – perhaps a raindrop?

The sensation repeated. Ayumi knew she wasn't dreaming. Opening her eyes, she saw another drop forming on a crack in her tent. She moved to avoid more drops and wiped away the initial ones. She wrapped herself in her blanket and looked at the leak. It wasn't too serious, but if left alone, more water could come in by morning.

Reaching for her bag, Ayumi searched for something to cover the hole. She found a paperclip and some wrappers. With a sigh, she considered other options.

Unfortunately, the leak was right above the center of the tent's floor, making it hard to sleep comfortably. Ayumi wasn't surprised by the tear; the tent hadn't been tested in the rain before.

She partially unzipped her tent and looked outside. Other tent lights were off. She heard what seemed like snoring from Yujiro's tent.

She looked at Haruki's tent, where a faint light glowed. There was no sound, but it seemed Haruki was awake, probably struggling to sleep.

Ayumi sighed and closed her tent, deciding between enduring the leak or visiting Haruki.

Blushing, she shook her head. It didn't feel right to bother him at this hour. They had just gone to their own tents. It would be simpler to quickly visit Haruki, ask about materials for fixing her tent, and keep things straightforward.

Putting on her waterproof jacket, she ventured out into the rain. She hurried to Haruki's tent and paused, wondering how to get his attention. Knocking didn't seem appropriate.

Not wanting to stay in the cold, she unzipped the tent slightly to peek inside. Haruki's eyes were closed, and a soft light was on. He seemed awake but resting his eyes.

"Haruki?" Ayumi's voice was soft. He stirred but didn't wake up. "Haruki!" Ayumi raised her voice a bit to be heard over the rain. Haruki slowly sat up, blinking his eyes open, looking surprised.

"Ayumi?" he said, sounding surprised. "Why are you up?"

"I found a leak in my tent," Ayumi whispered. "I thought you might be able to help." Haruki nodded, understanding the situation.

"Come in. No need to stand in the rain," he offered. Ayumi nodded, opened the tent wider to enter, and zipped it closed behind her. They were in a quiet space, their eyes meeting briefly.

"So," Haruki broke the silence. "How can I assist?" Ayumi rubbed her arm and looked away.

"I was hoping you had something to fix my tent," she admitted, showing her vulnerability.

Haruki thought for a moment. "I might have some tape," he said. "I'm not sure how well it'll work, but it should cover the hole." He rummaged in his bag and handed her a roll of duct tape.

"I'm glad I brought this," he thought, giving Ayumi the tape.

"Thank you," Ayumi said with a smile. She took the tape and turned to leave but paused, her hand on the tent flap. At the same time, lightning lit up the sky, followed by thunder. Ayumi shivered and recoiled from the noise.

"Are you okay?" Haruki asked, concerned. Ayumi nodded cautiously. But another round of thunder made her close her eyes and cover her ears. Haruki, understanding her discomfort, got up and closed the tent flap, sitting beside her.

Ayumi met his gaze, her anxiety evident in her eyes, her hands trembling. "Ayumi?" Haruki's voice was gentle, seeking to understand her emotions.

In response, Ayumi extended her hand, gripping Haruki's jacket and pulling herself closer to him, finding comfort in his embrace. She held onto his shirt and pressed her face against his chest.

Haruki hesitated briefly before embracing her back, swaying slightly, providing a reassuring presence. "It's just thunder," he whispered comfortingly. "Nothing more." Ayumi nodded, still huddled in her cocoon, her voice reduced to a soft whimper.

Seeing her vulnerability, Haruki continued to hold her, guiding them to the center of the tent. Gently, he lowered her onto his mattress, arranging her carefully.

"Rest," Haruki whispered. He covered Ayumi with the blanket, creating a warm haven. Dimming the light above, he settled beside her, his gaze fixed on her face. He extended his arm, and Ayumi nestled against it, finding solace in his presence.

"You're safe," Haruki murmured, his words a soothing lullaby in the dimness. Ayumi nodded slightly, drawing closer to Haruki. With the warmth of his embrace, her anxiety gradually eased, and she surrendered to the embrace of sleep.